A (Slow) Reading Update

I’m in the middle of a few books right now that are slow-going in the best ways:

The Priory of the Orange Tree is 800+ pages long. I’m doing a buddy read with a bunch of other bookstagrammers who broke out a reading schedule over the span of many weeks. I’m loving the intentional pace because it’s allowing me to really sink into the world of the story without feeling overwhelmed or overloaded with world-building.

Mansfield Park: another buddy read. I’ve been picking it up every now and then but am content with a chapter here and there whenever the mood strikes. I’m used to reading classics for school, so getting to read this in a non-scheduled, non-graded way feels like such a luxury.

Save the Cat! Writes a Novel: I’m working on another draft of my manuscript, and I’m using this book as a guide and reference point as I go. Taking my time to read this as I write helps me internalize all of the wonderful writing advice and story craft. I’ve also been taking time to jot down editing ideas as I read this book, which has led to lots of pauses but also so much storytelling growth.

I used to pride myself on reading quickly, but I think I’m entering my slow reading era. Absolutely loving it.

Are you a slow reader, a fast reader, or somewhere in between?